The number of subscribers to the three LTE networks operated by Optus, Telstra and Vodafone has grown rapidly over the last two years. Technological developments have also progressed, with Telstra proving its market lead, showcasing 450Mb/s capabilities for LTE in May 2014 by combining three channels. Vodafone's 1800MHz assets has led the company to emphasise the potential fast data downloads available on its network, though it will be at a disadvantage when Telstra and Optus begin to make use of their 700MHz concessions from early 2015. As services improve in coverage and capability the market will see a steady migration of subscribers from 3G to 4G networks.

These networks face daunting data demands from customers, many of whom make use of data-intensive graphics, videos and files shared across the networks from devices and from popular social network sites such as Facebook. While networks can at times be strained, the MNOs are continually adding capabilities to their networks and applications in an effort to reduce their overall costings. Customer preference for WiFi from homes and workplaces has meant that mobile broadband growth is mainly is this segment, with growth from dedicated data cards being only 3% in 2013, year-on-year.

This report provides some background information on a range of mobile technologies, as well as commentary and analysis the networks in Australia. It also assesses the prospects for operators as they extend their LTE deployments beyond the major urban areas and deeper into country Australia. The report contains a range of valuable key statistics on network data throughput, operator strategies and emerging technologies.